In a recent visit to British Columbia from July 17 to 21, Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu met with provincial and industry leaders, as well as Trade Commissioner Service clients in the defence, aerospace, and agriculture sectors. The minister’s meeting aimed to discuss trade priorities, opportunities, and collaborations between Canada and B.C.
During a keynote address at a Surrey Board of Trade event, Minister Sidhu outlined Canada’s economic priorities, including strengthening and diversifying trade relationships worldwide. He highlighted the significance of the Government of Canada’s Team Canada Trade Missions, a key initiative under the Indo-Pacific Strategy that helps Canadian businesses export to new international markets. “Over the past few days, I’ve seen first-hand the global impact of British Columbia’s business community,” said Minister Sidhu. “These companies are not only innovative and globally connected—they’re helping position Canada as a trusted, reliable partner on the world stage.”
Minister Sidhu also met with his newly appointed B.C. counterpart, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth Ravi Kahlon, to explore collaboration opportunities between the federal and provincial governments to create market connections for Canadian companies. Following their meeting, Minister Kahlon joined Minister Sidhu at a round-table discussion with Business Council of British Columbia members, where they shared Canada’s and B.C.’s priorities for continued growth in the energy sector.
The minister toured the Port of Vancouver, seeing firsthand how the harbour contributes to Canada’s international supply chain, facilitating the flow of exports to Asia and connections to essential goods from around the world. He also visited OSI Maritime Systems Ltd., a successful Trade Commissioner Service partner, where he gained valuable insights into the unique export challenges faced by Canadian defence companies.
Minister Sidhu’s visit included stops in Kitimat, where he learned about LNG Canada’s exports to Asia, highlighting Canada’s role as a leader in clean energy solutions and its potential to become a conventional and clean energy superpower. The minister concluded his visit in Kelowna, participating in a discussion with business leaders at the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce, where he highlighted the role the Trade Commissioner Service can play to help B.C. companies reach new export markets.
The meeting demonstrated Canada’s commitment to strengthening trade relationships with key provinces like British Columbia, which serves as a vital gateway to the Indo-Pacific region. By exploring collaboration opportunities and supporting Canadian businesses, the Government of Canada aims to drive sustainable, inclusive trade growth.
Quick Facts:
– In 2024, B.C.’s top merchandise trade partners were the United States, China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, and India.
– Goods exported by businesses in British Columbia had a value of $52.3 billion last year.
– Top 3 export industries in British Columbia are manufacturing, mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction, and wholesale trade.
Media Contact:
For media inquiries, please contact the Office of the Minister of International Trade at 343-575-8816 or Huzaif.Qaisar@international.gc.ca.